November is National Diabetes Month

Ridgewood NJ, The Ridgewood Health Department asks: Did you know that 1 in 11 Americans today suffer from Diabetes? Despite its prevalence, diabetes is an invisible disease. It affects men and women, people young and old, and people of all races, shapes and sizes. Often there are no outward signs from the 29 million Americans who fight this chronic illness every day. That’s why there is a critical need to foster awareness and education while breaking down stereotypes, myths and misunderstandings about this growing public health crisis that affects so many of us.

According to the American Diabetes Association, Diabetes is one of the leading causes of disability and death in the United States. It can cause blindness, nerve damage, kidney disease, and other health problems if it’s not controlled. One in 11 Americans have diabetes — that’s more than 29 million people. And another 86 million adults in the United States are at high risk of developing type 2 Diabetes. People who are at high risk for type 2 Diabetes can lower their risk by more than half if they make healthy changes. These changes include: eating healthy, increasing physical activity, and losing weight. If you are overweight, have high blood pressure, or are age 45 or older, you are at higher risk of developing type 2 Diabetes. The good news is that making healthy changes can greatly lower your risk.

Holidays like Thanksgiving that are centered on sharing good food with family and friends aren’t always easy for someone who has diabetes. Turkey, itself, is actually a very healthy bird. It’s a good source of protein, high in niacin, phosphorous, selenium, vitamin B6 and zinc. It is also all protein, no carbs. A 3-ounce serving of turkey breast meat is just 87 calories, 15 grams of protein and 3 grams of carbs. Start a new tradition to take the spotlight off the food. Suggest an after-dinner walk around the neighborhood, or play charades or other group activities, to get your blood moving, and to keep you occupied so you don’t pick at leftovers, or succumb to that second piece of pie.

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